Hannah Sheldon-Dean (text) and Wiliam Luong (illustrator), Who’s Who? Greek Mythology: The Gods, Heroes & Monsters of Legend, Thomas Nelson, June 2024, 192 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781646434565
In this bright and vibrant encyclopaedia about Greek mythology, young readers will be introduced to the pantheon of ancient Greek gods, heroes, monsters and others immortalised in myth and legend. There are different sections, each one on different brightly coloured pages, with an introduction containing a useful family tree and pronunciation guide.
The book’s first section is about the Olympians, followed by other gods, heroes and mortals and monsters and beasts. Each individual has their name shown in English and Greek, followed by any relevant information such as family relationships, symbols, Roman equivalent and how to pronounce their name. They are each also accompanied by a colourful full-page illustration by Vietnamese artist Wiliam Luong, who loves Manga. In addition, there are photos of Ancient Greek artifacts, such as vases and sculptures, which depict the characters.
The length of each entry depends on how much there is to say about each one. Some, such as the entry for Zeus, are several pages long, whilst others may only be a double page. The family relationships are quite convoluted, but explained and different variations of the myths are also described. Uses of the Greek or Roman names of the gods in today’s vocabulary, such as the names of galaxies and planets with their moons are also mentioned. The book ends with a glossary and comprehensive index.
This is an attractive and quite comprehensive volume about Greek mythology for young readers which would be useful in any home, school or library, and it’s selling at a great price too!
Reviewed by Lynne Babbage
